Qastor News

Qastor 2.40.2012.11.22.1 is available for download from our website and includes a number of useful features.

This version is Windows 8 compliant.

For Qastor Support, we have moved to an online support ticket system. This is inline with the Support method for our other products and will ensure that all your messages are always logged and you will be able to log in at any time to see the status of all issues you created. If you are working as a group of Qastor users, we do request you try to channel your feedback, bugs and questions to prevent duplication. For more information see click here

We have completed the integration of the OMC Dynamic Under Keel Clearance (DUKC) overlay (for more information click here). The DUKC data is exchanged between the shore based DUKC server and remote Qastor unit using our Qastor Connect server, providing pilots with their safe navigation area in real-time.

MSC Cruises - vessel tracking system

Since the summer, QPS Qastor, a precise navigation, piloting and docking software application, is used by MSC Cruises to plan ship routes in advance. Before a proposed route is sent to a vessel, a detailed route verification is performed in order to ensure avoidance of shoal or so-called “no go areas”. Following these route checks, and only once the route is considered 100% safe, is the validated route then digitally transferred to the vessel’s ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) on board, using the Qastor Connect Server.

In real-time, the navigation and engine room data of each cruise vessel are transmitted to the technical department of MSC Cruises. There, a Connect Server collates and stores the information. The system means that each ship is constantly sending own ship information together with nearby AIS targets to the shore based Connect Server. In order to provide a reliable traffic image, the Connect Server blends the real-time vessel information with real-time information from terrestrial based AIS networks.

“This state-of-the-art technology complements our on board crew’s vast knowledge and experience. By providing this additional information system, we are able to be sure that each cruise vessel is fully supported at all times” said Emilio La Scala, General Manager, MSC Cruises Technical Department.

A route monitoring and alert system makes up another part of the Connect Server. In case a vessel is too fast or too slow when compared against its predefined route, or enters a “no-go area”, an automated alarm is triggered within seconds and broadcast to the shore based company offices.

Also for this project we have added the ability to start Qastor multiple times (Qastor multi-instance add-on), and so the Technical Department have established a video wall and are able to monitor real-time all of their vessels.

Out-of-office hours, staff have access to a dedicated, secure, website and it provides a complete real-time overview of the location of each vessel. In addition to the vessel track history, the active route is also indicated to provide an up-to-date and accurate overview.